Pointer — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms

noun /ˈpȯin-tər/ point·er

Meaning & Definition of Pointer

Pointer (noun)

  1. the two stars in the Big Dipper a line through which points to the North Star
  2. one that points out; especially, a rod used to direct attention
  3. a computer memory address that contains another address (as of desired data)

Pointer (noun) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms

  1. an arrow-shaped piece on a dial or scale for registering information

    "the pointer on my bathroom scale must be stuck—I know I lost weight"

    similar: hand, index, indicator, needle
    related: dial, face, gauge

  2. a piece of advice or useful information especially from an expert

    "the instructor gave me a few pointers but otherwise let me do the cooking by myself"

    similar: hint, lead, tip
    related: advice, advisement, assistance, counsel, guidance, recommendation, suggestion, caution, cautioning, sign, signal, telltale, tip-off, warning, brief, direction, feedback, instruction, observation, prompt, reminder, urging, answer, clue, solution

Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for Pointer

The most common words with a similar meaning to Pointer:

hand, index, indicator, needle, hint, lead, tip

Related Words for Pointer

dial, face, gauge, advice, advisement, assistance, counsel, guidance, recommendation, suggestion, caution, cautioning, sign, signal, telltale, tip-off, warning, brief, direction, feedback, instruction, observation, prompt, reminder, urging, answer, clue, solution

Origin & Etymology of Pointer

First known use: 1534

Words & Phrases Containing Pointer

German shorthaired pointer, German wirehaired pointer, hip pointer, three-pointer

Frequently Asked Questions about Pointer

What does "Pointer" mean?

"Pointer" means the two stars in the Big Dipper a line through which points to the North Star. As a noun, it is defined as: the two stars in the Big Dipper a line through which points to the North Star. It has 2 distinct senses.

What is another word for "Pointer"?

Other words for "Pointer" include hand, index, indicator, needle, hint, lead and tip. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "Pointer" you intend.

What are different ways to say "Pointer"?

There are 35 words and phrases with a similar meaning to "Pointer". Common alternatives include hand, index, indicator, needle, hint, lead and tip.

How do you use "Pointer" in a sentence?

Examples of "Pointer" in a sentence: "the pointer on my bathroom scale must be stuck—I know I lost weight"; "the instructor gave me a few pointers but otherwise let me do the cooking by myself".

Is "Pointer" a noun, verb, or adjective?

"Pointer" is a noun.

How do you pronounce "Pointer"?

"Pointer" is pronounced /ˈpȯin-tər/ and divided into syllables as point·er.

What is the origin of the word "Pointer"?

First known use: 1534.

What is another word for "Pointer" meaning "an arrow-shaped piece on a dial or scale for registering information"?

When "Pointer" (noun) means an arrow-shaped piece on a dial or scale for registering information, synonyms include hand, index, indicator and needle.